Hot Stuff!

Chile peppers spice up your food, health—and running.

Jul 31, 2012

Add Nutritional PunchRichly colored chiles are packed with a range of antioxidants, including vitamin A and vitamin C. These nutrients may aid in recovery and help stave off ailments such as Alzheimer's disease and cancer.

Aid Weight LossPeppers get their spice from capsaicin, an antioxidant compound that boosts heat production in the body, burning an extra 10 to 50 calories a day. Other studies have found the compound can suppress your appetite and help you lose more belly fat.

Reduce Diabetes RiskExcess insulin (a hormone that moves carbs into muscle and fat cells) is a hallmark in people with the onset of type 2 diabetes. Research shows eating a chile pepper-spiced meal can lower your insulin response and improve blood-sugar levels.

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